пятница, 20 мая 2011 г.

Unique Handcrafted Jewelry - Some Tips For Shopping Online

What to Know When Shopping Online for Unique Handcrafted Jewelry

So you've decided to add some unique handmade jewelry to your collection? Handcrafted silver jewelry will probably end up being one of the most special accessories within your entire wardrobe because of its beauty and the fact that it's so different than other types of accessories. It's a wise investment and something you can treasure for years to come. Before you start your search, there are some tips you should consider so that you don't end up regretting your purchase.

There's a saying among jewelry makers that you should measure twice and cut once. When it comes to buying handcrafted silver jewelry, it's as important for you as the consumer to make sure you know what your measurements are. Fractions of an inch can be the difference between a comfortable piece of jewelry you'll get a lot of wear out of and an uncomfortable one that gets forgotten in the corners of your jewelry box. Especially if you're getting a piece made specifically for you and not just an already made handcrafted piece, knowing the right size to get in rings, necklaces and bracelets is extremely important.

Consider your budget when you go shopping for silver jewelry online, so you don't end up with buyer's remorse. Also consider what it is that you're looking for to add to your collection. If it's a trendy piece, maybe you won't want to spend as much. If you're looking for an investment piece to be a staple in your wardrobe or a special gift, you probably want to look into spending a little more.

Be mindful of the materials you're purchasing. Many times, handcrafted jewelry uses materials – gemstones, mainly – that you wouldn't normally find in your average store. That's part of what makes handmade jewelry unique. But with those rare and hard-to-find gemstones comes the responsibility of knowing how to take care of them. Methods for cleaning can vary vastly from gemstone to gemstone and some are more high maintenance than others. The care of different metals varies as well, so know what you're getting into before you buy.

There is a big difference between unique handmade jewelry and machine-made jewelry. The former tends to be pricier because of the workmanship that goes into making each piece so make sure the site – and designer - you're buying from is reputable. The last thing you want is to pay for something that's handcrafted only to get something that's been manufactured by a machine.

The biggest thing to remember is to be thorough with your research before you purchase unique handmade jewelry so all you have to do is enjoy your beautiful pieces!